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20 Tasty Toppings for Key Lime Pie to Make it Irresistible

As a lover of all things sweet and tangy, key lime pie has always been one of my favorite desserts.

While the classic version with a graham cracker crust and whipped cream topping is delicious on its own, there are so many tasty variations that you can try to take your key lime pie to the next level.

In this article, I will be sharing 20 mouthwatering toppings for key lime pie that are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Read Also: Key Lime Pie Wine Pairing – The Best Wines for Key Lime Pies

Key Lime Pie toppings

From fruit and nuts to chocolate and caramel, these toppings are sure to elevate your key lime pie game and impress your friends and family.

So grab a slice (or two) and let’s get started!

1. Fresh fruit (such as sliced strawberries, raspberries, or kiwi)

sliced strawberries

When it comes to key lime pie, a little bit of fresh fruit goes a long way.

I like to top my pies with a mix of sliced strawberries, raspberries, and kiwi for a burst of vibrant color.

The sweetness of the fruit pairs perfectly with the tartness of the key lime and adds a delightful crunchy texture.

Plus, it looks great when served on a plate. Just remember to pick sweet and ripe fruits for the best flavor!

2. Toasted coconut flakes

Toasted coconut flakes add a wonderful crunch and nutty flavor.

I recommend toasting them in a dry skillet over medium heat until they are golden brown, then sprinkling them over the top of the pie before baking.

You can also mix some of the toasted coconut flakes into the filling itself for extra texture.

3. Chopped nuts (such as almonds, pecans, or macadamia nuts)

Chopped nuts

Whatever type of pie you’re making, chopped nuts are a great topping.

Not only do they add texture and flavor to the dish, but they also look beautiful when sprinkled on top.

I especially love using almonds or macadamia nuts for key lime pies; the crunchy sweetness of the nuts pairs nicely with the tartness of the pie.

Pro Tip: Toast your chopped nuts in a skillet over medium heat before adding them to your pie – it’ll bring out even more flavor!

4. Chocolate chips or chocolate shavings

chocolate shavings

Simple, yet delicious. Chocolate chips or shavings on top of a key lime pie is the perfect way to add a bit of sweetness and texture.

It’s an easy way to elevate your dessert game, without having to put in too much effort.

Not only do they look great, but you get that sweet-salty combination that everyone loves!

Pro Tip: If you’re feeling fancy, try adding some sea salt flakes on top of the chocolate chips/shavings for extra flavor.

5. Caramel sauce or drizzle

No surprise here, but caramel sauce or drizzle is a great topping for your key lime pie.

Adding a layer of sweetness to this tart dessert will make it even more irresistible.

You can buy pre-made caramel sauce from the store or you could make your own at home using butter, sugar, and cream.

It’s really easy to do and tastes so much better than store-bought!

Pro Tip: For an extra special treat, add some chopped nuts or coconut flakes on top of the caramel before serving.

6. Whipped cream or whipped topping

Whether you buy it pre-made or make it yourself, whipped cream or topping is a great way to finish off your key lime pie.

It adds a lightness and sweetness that complements the tartness of the filling.

Plus, you can get creative with it!

You can top it off with some extra zest from the lime, some crushed graham crackers for an added crunch, or even some chocolate shavings for a bit of decadence.

Pro Tip: If you’re making your own whipped cream/topping, add in a teaspoon of vanilla extract for an extra boost of flavor.

7. Candied citrus peel or candied lime slices

Why not feel like a pro baker and add a little bit of flair to your pie?

Candied citrus peel or candied lime slices are an easy way to do just that.

Not only do they look beautiful, but they also add a burst of flavor and texture.

Make sure you give yourself enough time to make the candied citrus peels/slices from scratch – it’s worth it!

Pro Tip: To get the most out of your topping, sprinkle some sugar on top before baking. This will create a caramelized effect that will take your pies up a notch!

8. Crushed cookies (such as Oreos, or gingersnaps)

crushed Oreos
crushed Oreos

Any kid (or adult) will be extra excited when they see a pie with crushed cookies on top.

Not only does it look delicious, but the crunchy texture creates a great contrast to the creamy and tart filling of your key lime pie.

You can use any kind of cookie for this topping; Oreos, gingersnaps, or even graham crackers.

9. Marshmallows (such as miniature marshmallows or marshmallow fluff)

Now, you can truly take your key lime pie to the next level.

Topping it with marshmallows adds a sweet and gooey contrast to the tartness of the filling.

You can either add miniature marshmallows on top or mix a bit of marshmallow fluff into the whipped cream topping.

The combination is out of this world!

Pro Tip: Toast up those mini marshmallows for an extra layer of flavor and texture.

10. Crushed graham crackers or vanilla wafers

Crushed graham crackers

Instead of cookies, why not try crushed graham crackers or vanilla wafers?

It adds an extra crunch and flavor that pairs perfectly with the tartness of the lime filling.

Plus, it can also be used to top off other pies – like apple, cherry, or blueberry.

All you have to do is crush up some cookies in a food processor (or use pre-crushed cookie crumbs) and sprinkle over the top of your pie before baking.

11. Crushed pretzels

Crushed pretzels

Got some leftover pretzels?

Put them to good use!

Crushed pretzels make a great topping for key lime pie or any other type of pie.

The crunchy texture contrasts nicely with the creamy filling and adds a nice bit of saltiness that complements the sweetness of the pie.

Plus, it’s super easy – just crush up your pretzels into small pieces, sprinkle them on top of your pie, and bake until golden brown.

Pro Tip: If you want to add an extra layer of flavor, try adding some melted butter or olive oil before sprinkling on the crushed pretzels.

12. Crushed candy bars (such as Snickers or Butterfinger)

I often have a hard time deciding what topping to put on my dessert, but crushed candy bars are a great way to add an extra layer of flavor and texture.

The crunchy pieces of candy provide a nice contrast against the softness of the pie filling.

Plus, it adds an element of sweetness that helps balance out the tartness from the limes.

Pro Tip: Before adding your topping, place your finished pie in the fridge for about 30 minutes so that it can cool down and set up properly. This will help prevent any melted candy bar messes!

13. Chopped chocolate-covered candies (such as chocolate-covered peanuts or raisins)

chocolate-covered peanuts

Although this requires a bit of extra effort, the payoff is definitely worth it.

Chopped chocolate-covered candies make a delicious topping for your key lime pie, or any other kind of pie you may be making.

The combination of the tartness from the key lime and sweetness from the chocolate creates an unbeatable flavor profile that’s sure to please everyone at your next gathering.

Pro Tip: For best results, use high-quality dark chocolate for your candy coating – this will help bring out even more flavor when added to the pie!

14. Chopped dried fruit (such as apricots, figs, or cranberries)

Simple and elegant, chopped dried fruit is a great way to add texture and flavor to your pie.

You can either use it as a topping or mix it in with the filling.

I love using apricots, figs, and cranberries for key lime pies because they bring out the sweetness of the citrus without overpowering it.

You could also try adding some nuts (such as almonds or walnuts) for an extra crunchy texture.

Pro Tip: If you’re using dried fruit, soak them in water overnight before chopping them up – this will help them keep their shape and not get too mushy when baking.

15. Crushed peppermint candies or peppermint bark

If you like that little bit of minty sweetness, crushed peppermint candies or peppermint bark make an excellent topping for pies.

I like to prepare this topping by crushing up the candy and sprinkling it over the top of the pie before baking.

It adds a nice crunch and flavor that pairs perfectly with sweet fruit pies such as apple or cherry.

16. Peanut butter or peanut butter drizzle

I don’t know a single person who doesn’t love the combination of chocolate and peanut butter.

Whether you use it as a topping for your pie, or just drizzle some over the top, it’s sure to make your dessert that much more delicious.

  1. To prepare the peanut butter topping (or drizzle), simply melt some creamy peanut butter in a small bowl with a bit of melted butter until it’s smooth.
  2. Then pour it over your pie – or any other dessert – and enjoy!

Pro Tip: If you want to add even more flavor, try adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to your melted peanut butter mixture.

17. Caramelized bananas

Special and delicious, caramelized bananas are a great way to add flavor and texture to your pies.

  1. I like to prepare them by slicing the bananas into coins and sautéing them in butter until they get golden brown.
  2. Then, I add a tablespoon of brown sugar for that extra sweetness.
  3. Serve the caramelized bananas on top of your favorite pie or as a side dish with ice cream and you’re good to go!

Pro Tip: If you want even more flavor, try adding some cinnamon or nutmeg while sautéing the bananas.

18. Mango or passionfruit puree

If you like exotic flavors, this is the topping for you.

Mango or passionfruit puree adds a bright and tart flavor to any pie.

I like to mix it with some powdered sugar and lime zest for an extra zing of flavor.

It’s also delicious on top of yogurt or ice cream, or even as a filling in your favorite cake!

Pro Tip: To make sure your puree isn’t too runny, cook it down until it thickens up before adding it to your pie.

19. Lemon or lime curd

When nothing but the best will do, lemon or lime curd is a great topping for pies.

It’s easy to prepare and adds an extra layer of flavor that can’t be beaten.

I like to make my own curd by combining sugar, butter, eggs, fresh citrus juice, and zest in a saucepan over low heat.

Once it thickens up, I let it cool before spooning it onto my favorite pie recipes.

Pro Tip: If you want to take this topping up a notch, add some cream cheese when you mix together your ingredients!

20. Vanilla or caramel ice cream or frozen yogurt

Your family will love this sweet and creamy topping.

I like to serve it on top of a warm apple or cherry pie, but you could use it for any type of pie.

To make this topping even more special, try adding some chopped nuts or sprinkles for an extra crunch.

Pro Tip: If you’re using ice cream, let it soften slightly before spooning it onto your pie – that way, the ice cream will spread evenly and won’t stick together in one big blob!

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Key Lime Pie toppings

20 Toppings for Key Lime Pie You Must Try

I truly believe that key lime pie is one of the tastiest desserts out there. It's tangy, sweet, and tart all at once. So why not make it even better by topping it with some delicious additions? In this post, I'll be talking about 20 amazing toppings you must try on your key lime pie.
From coconut to caramel, and even some unique ingredients, you'll be sure to find something that will take your key lime pie to the next level. So get ready to get creative and start topping!
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 4 people
Calories 356 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • Fresh fruit (such as sliced strawberries, raspberries, or kiwi)
  • Toasted coconut flakes
  • Chopped nuts (such as almonds, pecans, or macadamia nuts)
  • Chocolate chips or chocolate shavings
  • Caramel sauce or drizzle
  • Whipped cream or whipped topping
  • Candied citrus peel or candied lime slices
  • Crushed cookies (such as Oreos, or gingersnaps)
  • Marshmallows (such as miniature marshmallows or marshmallow fluff)
  • Crushed graham crackers or vanilla wafers
  • Crushed pretzels
  • Crushed candy bars (such as Snickers or Butterfinger)
  • Chopped chocolate-covered candies (such as chocolate-covered peanuts or raisins)
  • Chopped dried fruit (such as apricots, figs, or cranberries)
  • Crushed peppermint candies or peppermint bark
  • Peanut butter or peanut butter drizzle
  • Caramelized bananas
  • Mango or passionfruit puree
  • Lemon or lime curd
  • Vanilla or caramel ice cream or frozen yogurt

Instructions
 

  • Pick any of these toppings to add to your pie.
  • Prepare the topping however you'd like.
  • Enjoy your pie in no time!
CEO at Happy Muncher | benjamin@happymuncher.com | Website | + posts

Hi, I'm Benjamin. I love cooking, long walks, and my girlfriend! Here you’ll find simple and delicious recipes that you can make in 30 minutes or less.